Question: I haven't done any "work for pay" in 12 years, but I have done a lot of volunteer work. How do I address this on my résumé? Also should I include my employment from the 1980s? Matt: Paid, unpaid, overpaid, underpaid  work is work, says Kevin Donlin, president of Edina- based Guaranteed Résumés (www.gresumes.com).

Dear Matt: I have been let go from my company and as part of my severance package I have been provided with an outplacement service to help with my job and career search. How do I get the most from this service?

Technology is always changing and job seekers who keep on top of the latest trends and learn new skills will become more marketable to employers. You don't have to be a techie, but you do have to know the importance of becoming technically savvy in and out of your profession.

Employers don't want to hire workers who jump from job to job. But by highlighting your accomplishments and skills, those who have moved from job to job can help overcome the stigma of being labeled a job hopper

It's tough when you are working long hours and through the day and into the night. It's even tougher when your family and personal life are affected. Before you think there isn't a solution, develop a plan and present it to your employer to see if just maybe you can make it work.

The best time to look for a job may be when you have a job — especially if you feel a layoff may be in your future. Take these steps to make sure when and if the time comes, you are already on track to finding a new job.

What may be considered a hot job to one person may not be to you. That's why it's important you assess what your skills and interests are before deciding on what educational program to choose. There are a number of great resources available for Minnesota job seekers. Read more to find out how to create your own hot jobs list.

Getting a second or part-time job is a great way to help deal with rising costs of living. Before you look for just any job, assess what it is you really want out of a part-time job. Identify your goals and take the process seriously and you will not only earn some extra money, but make new personal and professional contacts that can benefit you down the road.

Finding out you lost your job is a crushing experience. Being offered a severance package is a positive that can hopefully help lessen the blow. However, before you accept a severance package, think things through to make sure you understand what is being offered and what options you may have before agreeing to terms.

By expanding your network and making new contacts you become more marketable to potential employers and clients. By cultivating and developing business relationships, you just may find the success and motivation you are looking for.

Are birthday celebrations at work a good team building exercise, or just a waste of work time? Matt Krumrie gives some advice on how to have some good old-fashioned fun while keeping the work environment productive and professional.

Wanting to spend more time with family? It's best to review all of your options before making the decision to work nights. Matt Krumrie suggests thinking through the physical and mental changes that come along with working different hours.

Have you ever been on the verge of being offered a job after a long and successful interviewing process, but then for some reason, the employer rejects you? Matt Krumrie advises job seekers to take control of their job search and not to wait around.

For those who need a leave of work to care for a family member or themselves the Family Medical Leave Act allows employees 12 weeks of unpaid time to address those concerns. Matt Krumrie gives some advice on how to create a plan of action before approaching a manager.

Dear Matt: I sit around a group of people and one of my co-workers is always talking and very loud. What can I do to get him to stop talking, while maintaining peace and a professional working relationship?

Interviewing is about confidence in your ability and skill set, and conveying that message to the hiring manager. Use resources like the Minnesota Workforce Center for interviewing tips, and practice with friends or in front of a camera to boost confidence.